NCT06051890 · NYU Langone Health
Assessing Optimal XRB Initiation Points in Jail
What this study is about
This application describes a 3-year, randomly assigned controlled trial. Eligible, consenting adults (N=200) with existing sublingual buprenorphine (SLB) prescriptions who enter Middlesex County House of Corrections (MCHOC) as pre-trial detainees will be randomly assigned at admission on a 1:1 basis to be inducted onto extended-release buprenorphine (XRB) at the time of admission (experimental condition) or remain in SLB (E-TAU; all participants will also receive naloxone). The two approaches will be compared
View original scientific description
This application describes a 3-year, randomized controlled trial. Eligible, consenting adults (N=200) with existing sublingual buprenorphine (SLB) prescriptions who enter Middlesex County House of Corrections (MCHOC) as pre-trial detainees will be randomized at admission on a 1:1 basis to be inducted onto extended-release buprenorphine (XRB) at the time of admission (experimental condition) or remain in SLB (E-TAU; all participants will also receive naloxone).
Interventions
DRUG
Extended-Release Buprenorphine (XRB)
XRB (Sublocade) will be delivered as a pre-filled 2cc subcutaneous monthly injection, using a 300mg starting dose in most cases (100mg starting doses are available per the study team's clinical judgement). XRB consists of a depot injectable formulation in polymeric solution to the abdomen and releases buprenorphine over 28-days (4-weeks) by diffusion as the polymer biodegrades. Prior to an initial injection, the participant must be stable for several days or longer on sublingual buprenorphine (SLB) at doses of 8mg/day or higher. Participants will receive at least one XRB monthly injection prior to release, which investigators anticipate to usually be the 300mg dose. Some participants will be recruited earlier during the incarceration (or experience delayed release dates and then longer than anticipated incarcerations); XRB will be continued monthly from the time of induction to the day of release.
DRUG
Sublingual Buprenorphine (SLB)
Maintenance of existing SLB prescription (treatment as usual).
Primary outcome measures
Percentage of participants released from jail with at least 7 days of buprenorphine in their system
Time frame: Up to Month 6
The percentage of participants leaving jail with at least 7 days of buprenorphine protection in their system. Measured using clinical and jail records.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Incarcerated men able to provide written informed consent in English.\
- Unsentenced.
- Entering the facility with a prescription for SLB and receiving SLB for at least the previous 3 days.
- Minimum anticipated jail stay is 4 days.
- Willing to accept being randomized to the experimental condition (i.e., transitioning to XRB while incarcerated).
Exclusion criteria
- Allergy, hypersensitivity or medical contraindication to either medication.
- Chronic pain requiring opioid pain management or other contraindicated medications.
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Springfield, Massachusetts
- New Brunswick, New Jersey
- New York, New York
Collaborators
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Sep 10, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations